About Refugio County
Refugio County is located in the Coastal Bend region of South Texas, encompassing approximately 770 square miles of diverse landscape ranging from coastal prairies to agricultural lands. The county seat is the city of Refugio, which serves as the administrative and commercial center. Established in 1836, Refugio County is one of the original counties of the Republic of Texas and carries significant historical importance tied to the Texas Revolution. The county was named after Nuestra Señora del Refugio County Mission, established in 1793.
As of recent census estimates, the area has a population of approximately 6,700 residents, making it one of the smaller counties in Texas by population. The economy is primarily driven by agriculture, oil and gas production, and ranching. Major landmarks include the region Museum, historic downtown Refugio County, and proximity to Mission Bay and Copano Bay along the Texas Gulf Coast.
The county is intersected by U.S. Highway 77 and State Highway 202. County government operations are centered at the this jurisdiction Courthouse, located at 808 Commerce Street in Refugio County, Texas 78377.
The County Clerk's office maintains vital records, court documents, and real property records. The County Tax Assessor-Collector, located in the same courthouse complex, handles property tax assessments and vehicle registrations. The County Appraisal District manages property valuations and maintains appraisal records.
this county offers a rural quality of life with strong ties to Texas heritage and Gulf Coast culture.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
The Refugio County Sheriff's Office is responsible for maintaining law and order within the county's unincorporated areas. The office patrols these regions, manages the county jail, processes arrests, and maintains criminal records. The sheriff's office also engages in community outreach programs and collaborates with local law enforcement agencies to ensure public safety. Notable divisions within the office include the patrol division and the criminal investigations unit, which work together to address crime and ensure a secure environment for residents.
Police Departments
Law enforcement in Refugio County is primarily handled by the Refugio County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments in the cities of Refugio and Woodsboro. The Refugio Police Department and Woodsboro Police Department manage law enforcement within their respective city limits, handling local crime, traffic enforcement, and community policing. These agencies coordinate with the sheriff's office on major crimes and emergencies, ensuring a comprehensive approach to public safety across the county.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
Law enforcement in Refugio County is primarily provided by the Refugio County Sheriff's Office, headquartered at 906 Alamo Street, Refugio, TX 78377. The Sheriff's Office can be reached at (361) 526-2351 and is responsible for county-wide law enforcement, operation of the county jail, court security, and civil process service. The the area Jail houses pre-trial detainees and sentenced misdemeanor offenders. Inmate information can be obtained by calling the jail directly or visiting the Sheriff's Office in person during business hours.
- Citizens can request arrest records by submitting a written public information request to the Sheriff's Office.
- Booking photos and mugshots are typically available through the same request process, though agencies may charge reasonable fees for copies.
- Processing times vary but agencies must respond to requests within ten business days under state law.
Municipal law enforcement is provided by the Refugio area Police Department within the city limits of Refugio County, the county's largest county. The nearby communities of Woodsboro and Austwell rely primarily on the Sheriff's Office for law enforcement services. Under the Texas Public Information Act, codified in Chapter 552 of the Texas Government Code, arrest records are generally considered public information.
Some arrest information may be withheld if it pertains to ongoing investigations or would compromise law enforcement operations. The Sheriff's Office maintains records of arrests, incident reports, and jail bookings. For warrant information or arrest status, contacting the Sheriff's Office directly is recommended.
Texas Department of Public Safety also maintains statewide criminal history records accessible through official channels.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
Criminal records in Refugio County encompass felony, misdemeanor, traffic offenses, and the sex offender registry. The Refugio County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records, while the Texas Department of Public Safety provides statewide criminal history information. Residents can conduct background checks through the Texas Department of Public Safety's online portal, which offers access to public criminal records. The Texas Bureau of Investigation also plays a role in supporting local law enforcement with resources and information sharing.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Refugio County are maintained by the Refugio County Sheriff's Office. These records include details of the arrest, charges filed, and personal information of the arrested individual. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records through the sheriff's office, following procedures outlined by the Texas Public Information Act. Arrest records typically contain the date of arrest, charges, and any court dates or outcomes associated with the arrest. The process ensures transparency and access to public information while safeguarding individual privacy rights.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Refugio County Jail is the primary detention facility in the county, where individuals arrested within the county are booked and held. The booking process involves recording personal information, taking fingerprints, and photographing the detainee. Inmate lookup services are available through the sheriff's office, allowing family and legal representatives to find information about current detainees. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, with scheduled times and regulations that must be adhered to by visitors.
- The bond and bail process follows Texas state guidelines, allowing for the release of individuals pending trial upon payment of a set amount.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Refugio County are taken and retained by the Refugio County Sheriff's Office during the booking process. These booking photos are part of the arrest records and can be accessed through the sheriff's office or third-party services that compile public records. Texas does not have specific laws for the removal of mugshots from public records, but individuals can request corrections or updates if inaccuracies are found. The availability of mugshots is subject to the Texas Public Information Act, which governs the release of public records.
Courts & Case Records
The Refugio County court system includes several levels of jurisdiction. The 24th Judicial District Court serves Refugio County and handles felony criminal cases, major civil litigation, family law matters including divorce and child custody, and appeals from lower courts. The District Court is located in the this jurisdiction Courthouse at 808 Commerce Street, Refugio, TX 78377, and can be reached at (361) 526-2233.
- The County Court at Law handles misdemeanor criminal cases, civil matters up to $250,000, probate proceedings, guardianships, and appeals from Justice of the Peace and Municipal Courts.
- Justice of the Peace Courts (Precincts 1-4) have jurisdiction over small claims up to $20,000, Class C misdemeanors, evictions, and serve as magistrate courts for initial criminal proceedings.
- The County Clerk's office provides public access to most civil and criminal case records during regular business hours.
- Certified copies of court documents are available for statutory fees, typically $1 per page plus certification fees.
- Requests for older or archived records may require additional processing time.
The County Clerk serves as the official record keeper for both District and County Courts and maintains case files, court dockets, and judgments. Municipal Court in the local community handles city ordinance violations and Class C misdemeanors occurring within city limits. Court records are accessible under Chapter 552 of the Texas Government Code (Public Information Act) and local court rules.
Some courts participate in the Texas Judicial Branch's online case search systems, though availability varies. Certain records, including sealed cases, juvenile matters, and protective order files, are restricted by law.
Property & Public Records
Property and land records in Refugio County are maintained by the County Clerk's office, located at 808 Commerce Street, Suite 201, Refugio, TX 78377, phone (361) 526-2233. The County Clerk serves as the official recorder of deeds and maintains the Official Public Records, which include warranty deeds, special warranty deeds, quitclaim deeds, deeds of trust, mechanic's and materialmen's liens, federal tax liens, abstract of judgments, easements, rights-of-way, oil and gas leases, plat maps, and other instruments affecting real property title.
- The Clerk's office provides public access terminals for record searches during regular business hours, Monday through Friday.
- Certified copies of recorded instruments are available for statutory fees of $1 per page plus a $5 certification fee.
- The Appraisal District provides online property search capabilities through their website, allowing users to search by owner name, property address, or account number.
- This free online system provides access to property characteristics, ownership information, assessed values, and exemption data.
- Historical deed research requires in-person or mail requests to the County Clerk.
These records are indexed by grantor, grantee, and property description to facilitate title searches. Property tax information is maintained separately by the Refugio County Tax Assessor-Collector's office at 808 Commerce Street, phone (361) 526-5373. The Tax Assessor-Collector handles tax collections, vehicle registrations, and voter registration.
Property valuations and appraisal records are maintained by the this county Appraisal District, located at 410 North Alamo Street, Refugio County, TX 78377, phone (361) 526-5726. Current year tax statements and payment status can typically be verified through the Tax Assessor-Collector's office.
Vital Records
Vital records for Refugio County residents are managed through multiple agencies depending on the record type and date. Birth and death certificates occurring in Refugio County can be requested from the region Clerk's office at 808 Commerce Street, Suite 201, Refugio, TX 78377, phone (361) 526-2233. Local registrars maintain records for events occurring within their jurisdiction, but comprehensive statewide records are held by the Texas Department of State Health Services, Vital Statistics Section, located at 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, TX 78756.
- Birth certificates cost $23 for a certified copy from the state office, with additional copies ordered at the same time costing $23 each.
- Death certificates cost $21 each.
- Processing time is typically 4-6 weeks by mail, though expedited service may be available for additional fees.
- The marriage license fee is set by state statute.
- Certified copies of marriage records are available from the County Clerk for $10 each.
Applicants must provide valid government-issued photo identification and demonstrate a direct and tangible interest in the record, as required by Texas Family Code Section 191.0045 and Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 181. Eligible applicants include the registrant, immediate family members, legal representatives, and persons with court orders. Marriage licenses must be obtained from the region Clerk before the ceremony, with a 72-hour waiting period and 90-day validity.
Divorce records (decrees) are maintained by the District Clerk as part of court case files. Online ordering of vital records may be available through VitalChek or the state vital statistics website, with additional processing fees.
Business & Licensing
Business licensing and registration in Refugio County involves multiple government levels. The Refugio County Clerk's office, located at 808 Commerce Street, Suite 201, Refugio, TX 78377, phone (361) 526-2233, handles the filing of Assumed Name Certificates (DBA - Doing Business As) for businesses operating under a name other than the owner's legal name. These filings are required under Texas Business & Commerce Code Section 71.002 and must be renewed every ten years. The filing fee is typically $20-25.
- The Secretary of State maintains a free online business entity search tool called SOSDirect, accessible at direct.sos.state.tx.us, allowing searches by entity name, file number, or registered agent.
- This database provides information on business status, formation date, registered agent, and filing history.
For formal business entity formation including corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), limited partnerships, and professional associations, filings are made with the Texas Secretary of State, Business and Public Filings Division. Sales tax permits are issued by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts and can be applied for online. Professional licenses for occupations such as contractors, cosmetologists, and healthcare providers are issued by respective state licensing boards.
Local business permits and occupational licenses may be required within incorporated cities; the City of Refugio area issues business permits and certificates of occupancy through the City Secretary's office. Building permits, electrical permits, and plumbing permits are issued by the county or city building inspection departments depending on jurisdiction. Zoning information and land use permits are handled by the this county Commissioners Court or city planning departments.
The this jurisdiction Chamber of Commerce can be contacted for business development resources and local economic information.
Elections & Voter Records
Election administration in Refugio County is managed by the Refugio County Elections Administrator, operating from the region Courthouse at 808 Commerce Street, Refugio, TX 78377. The Elections Office can be reached at (361) 526-4434 for voter registration information, polling locations, and election-related questions. Voter registration in Texas requires completion of an application at least 30 days before an election.
- To register, applicants must be U.S.
Texas offers online voter registration applications through the Secretary of State website at votetexas.gov, where residents can complete and submit applications electronically if they have a current Texas driver's license or state ID. Applications can also be submitted by mail or in-person at the County Elections Office, tax assessor-collector's office, or various state agencies. citizens, at least 18 years old on election day, residents of the county, and not finally convicted of a felony or, if convicted, have completed their sentence including probation and parole.
Polling place locations for this jurisdiction voters can be found on the county website or by contacting the Elections Office. Early voting is conducted at designated locations typically beginning 17 days before election day and ending four days before. Election day polling places are assigned by precinct.
Public election records in the area include voter registration lists (with certain personal information redacted under Texas Election Code Section 18.066), election results by precinct, campaign finance reports filed by candidates and political committees, candidate applications and filings, and election orders. These records are available under the Texas Public Information Act. the county typically experiences voter turnout of 45-60% in presidential election years and 25-40% in midterm elections, with variations by precinct and election competitiveness.
In the 2024 general election, turnout was consistent with traditional patterns for rural Texas counties. The next major election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, featuring U.S. House of Representatives races, one U.S.
Senate seat, Texas statewide offices including Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Attorney General, Texas Legislature seats, and various county and local positions. Mail-in (absentee) ballots in Texas are available only to voters who are 65 or older, disabled, out of the county during the early voting period and on election day, or confined in jail but eligible to vote. Applications for mail ballots must be submitted to the area Elections Administrator and received no later than 11 days before election day.
Texas does not offer no-excuse absentee voting. The Elections Office maintains transparency by providing public access to election records, posting sample ballots and election notices, and making precinct-level results available after certification.
Economy & Demographics
Refugio County's economy is characterized by a diverse mix of traditional and modern industries rooted in its natural resources and Gulf Coast location. Agriculture remains a foundational sector, with extensive cattle ranching, hay production, corn, sorghum, and cotton cultivation across the county's 770 square miles of largely rural landscape. The county consistently ranks among Texas leaders in livestock production. Oil and gas extraction represents a significant economic driver, with numerous active wells and production facilities contributing to employment and tax revenues.
- According to recent estimates, Refugio County's median household income is approximately $52,000-57,000, somewhat below the Texas state average, reflecting the rural character and economic composition.
- The county's location between major Texas cities and near the Gulf Coast provides strategic advantages for logistics and distribution activities.
The energy sector includes both conventional petroleum production and related services. Major employers include school districts, county and city governments, healthcare facilities, agricultural operations, and energy companies. The chemical and petrochemical industry maintains a presence in the region, with industrial facilities along the nearby Gulf Coast.
Retail trade, accommodation, and food services support local residents and travelers along Highway 77. Healthcare and social assistance sectors provide essential services through local clinics and long-term care facilities. Unemployment rates in the county typically track slightly above state averages, fluctuating with energy sector cycles and agricultural commodity prices.
The county benefits from proximity to larger economic centers including Corpus Christi, Victoria, and the Port of Corpus Christi. Economic development efforts focus on supporting existing industries, improving infrastructure, and maintaining quality of life in rural communities.
Transparency Score
Court Records: Yes: Available at Clerk | Property: Yes: Online Search via Appraisal District | Arrest/Jail: Limited: By Request/Phone | Vital Records: Limited: In-Person or Mail | Business: Yes: Online via Secretary of State | Elections: Yes: Public Records Available | Overall Score: 7/10 — Refugio County provides solid access to property and business records online, with other records available through direct contact with county offices.